Are you properly insured if you’re considering a remodel? (Image via google)

You have a big remodel planned this summer that includes a revamped master bedroom and bath, a new kitchen, and a small addition that will create a family room off the back of the house. You have been dreaming about cooking in your new kitchen and waking up in your new bedroom for months. You have all the contractors you need lined up. Your permits are in place and you feel like you have everything taken care. But, have you called your insurance agent?

One mistake that many homeowners make is doing major improvements to their home without consulting their insurance agent. There are several areas where this oversight can lead to problems with your coverage while the remodeling work is underway and after it is complete. First, you need to make sure you have the right kind and right amount of coverage to protect you during the construction. Don’t wait until work has already started as you don’t want to find out you are underinsured when it is too late to rectify that problem. Second, your insurance needs may change based on the outcome of the remodel.

Here are some steps you need to take to ensure you have the coverage you need to protect you during the process.

1. Call Your Agent

It is important to do this before work starts. There may be additional coverage you need to secure during the remodel. If you or a family member will be doing most of the work, you may need to boost or enhance your liability coverage in the event someone is injured. Your agent can also advise you if there are additional coverage’s you need to have in place during the project.

2. Increase Your No Fault Medical Protection

The medical payments portion of your homeowners insurance is likely very low as the primary concern under normal circumstances is liability. However, if you or members of your family or even other people like friends are going to be doing some of the work, you should increase this limit. In the event someone is injured during construction, any medical bills can be submitted to the insurance company for payment.

3. Check Out You Subcontractors

While many homeowners think to check the references of subcontractors, they don’t always think to inquire about the subcontractors insurance and bonding. If the person doing work at your house damages your property or injures someone, you need to know that they are carrying adequate insurance to cover those losses. If they do not, the liability may fall on you and your homeowner’s policy may not cover these kinds of claims, leaving you to pay the bill out of pocket. Verify coverage by asking for proof of insurance from any company or individual that will be performing work on your house. If a subcontractor is unable or unwilling to provide proof of insurance, you may want to hire someone else.

4. Consider Additional Coverage

If you are doing a large project, you may want to purchase additional coverage like a Builder’s Risk policy. This type of policy protects you from any damage to your house during the course of construction including damage from wind or rain, theft of materials, and vandalism.